June 1 - September 1
2022 Summer Reading Offers Hundreds of "Oceans of Possibilities" Programs, Fun Prizes and Inspired Booklists for Everyone!
On June 1, 2022, Arlington Public Library will kick off its annual Summer Reading program which is made possible through the support of the Friends of the Arlington Public Library and the Washington Nationals. Between June 1 and September 1, readers of all ages are invited to immerse themselves in reading, participate in 500 free programs and to explore the 2022 theme "Oceans of Possibilities."
Win Washington Nationals Tickets And Meet Summer Reading Ambassador Sean Doolittle
For each reader who completes the Summer Reading challenge the Washington Nationals will offer one voucher (good for two tickets) to select baseball games in August and September (while supplies last).
The Library will offer a special storytime with Washington Nationals Summer Reading Ambassador Sean Doolittle on June 18, starting 10 a.m., at Central Library. Help us celebrate the Library's partnership with the Washington Nationals by welcoming Sean Doolittle. This program is for children and families. Attendance is on a first-come, first-served basis until capacity is reached.
Read for A Cause
For each successful Summer Reading completion, the Friends of the Arlington Public Library will donate $1 to Potomac Conservancy, a local non-profit fighting to ensure the Potomac River boasts clean drinking water, healthy lands and vibrant communities. On June 4, the Potomac Conservancy invites the community to participate in several clean-up events.
Participate in Hundreds of Free Summer Reading Programs
Between June 1 and September 1, the Library will offer over 500 free events for all ages and interests. Join us for Summer Reading celebrations at all seven branches during our kickoff weekend on June 4 - 5. No registrations are needed for the following Summer Reading kickoff events:
Saturday, June 4
Aurora Hills Library, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
This interactive program combines activities such as read-aloud stories, songs, rhymes and fingerplays. Join us after storytime for a bubble party. Sea glass craft making from 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.
MORE
Central Library, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Summer Reading Kickoff events to include games, treats, workshops, and prizes, including storytimes plus Q&As featuring Arlington children's book authors:
- 1:00 p.m.: Camille and Kennedy Watkin, authors of "My Best Friend, Grandpa"
- 1:30 p.m.: Nadia and Arrington Conyers, authors of "From Lee Highway to Langston Boulevard"
- Scavenger hunt activities with EcoAction Arlington
- 1:30 - 2:30 pm: Kona Ice Truck will offer free snow cones (while supplies last).
Cherrydale Library, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Children will enjoy a coloring activity, refreshments and prizes.
MORE
Glencarlyn Library, June 4, 12:15 p.m. - 12:45 p.m.
Celebrate Glencarlyn Day with indoor family storytime and finger puppets followed by a moon bounce and snow cones on the Carlin Hall grounds.
MORE
Shirlington Library, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Celebrate the beginning of Summer Reading with a sweet treat from the Kona shaved ice truck, art and games! We’ll have a signup table and various activities.
MORE
Westover Library, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Children and families are invited to storytime, a bubble bonanza and free snow cones from the Kona Ice Truck.
MORE
Sunday, June 5
Columbia Pike Library, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Celebrate the beginning of Summer Reading with a sweet treat from the Kona shaved ice truck! We’ll have a signup table, games and a craft activity.
MORE
Lubber Run Performing Arts Series
Throughout the summer, Arlington Public Library and Arlington Arts will host a Lubber Run Performing Arts Series on select Sundays at 11 a.m. at the Lubber Run Amphitheater, located at 200 N. Columbus St.
Meet Grammy award winning children’s performer Dan Zanes and Haitian-American jazz vocalist Claudia Zanes. Set sail with "Talewise"and join him on a thrilling action-packed adventure involving a crew of quirky pirates. Learn about conductor Cody’s Railroad Submarine where anything can happen with a bit of magic. And enjoy a modern rendition of a children's classic "Three Not So Little Pigs," presented by Blue Sky Puppet Theatre. All four programs are free and presented in partnership with Arlington Arts.